Phyllostachys nidularia aka Broom Bamboo

Phyllostachys nidularia is an evergreen bamboo in the grass family, Poaceae. Its common names include big-node bamboo and broom bamboo. It comes from central and southern China, within temperate Asia. There, it grows in forests and areas of scrub. Its habitat reaches about 4,265 feet [1,300 metres] above sea level. It keeps its leaves throughout the year.

In gardens, this bamboo reaches about 20 feet [6 metres] tall. Its spread can also reach about 20 feet [6 metres]. New shoots start to grow in early spring. The plant has shallow roots and suits a woodland setting. These roots do not compete with trees that root deeper. Its strong canes have uses beyond their role in the garden. They work well whole, but do not split well. Gardeners can use them as supports for other plants.

Choose rich, moist soil and a site with shelter. It grows in full sun or the light shade of woodland. It accepts sandy soil, loam, and clay. Mildly acid, neutral, and mildly alkaline soils all suit it. Plants For A Future lists USDA zones 6–9 for this species. Yet it also warns against long spells of hard frost. This makes a sheltered site worth choosing in colder gardens. The plant suits woodland edges and can form a hedge. It also has suggested uses for holding soil on slopes and levees.

Flowers appear only after gaps of many years. Each flower has both male and female parts. Wind carries the pollen. Seed production takes much of the plant's energy during flowering. Plants can weaken badly, and some die after they flower. Those left undisturbed often recover, though this may take several years. The species has strong resistance to honey fungus. Seed is scarce, so spring division offers another way to raise plants. Divisions from open ground need care while they settle in.

Young shoots are edible when cooked and are valued in China. Their early crop and mild taste make them useful for food. Harvest takes place in spring while the shoots remain short. Plants For A Future also lists stems among the edible parts. It reports no known hazards, but gives no detailed safety assessment. The same source records no known medicinal uses. Its main recorded uses are food, hedging, plant supports, and soil protection.